It's always good to peek outside your own bubble, and by bubble I mean the Boston sports media scene. Fans of New England teams are generally beaten over the head with negativity and tales of curses – even during the good years. While admitting the Celtics have been anything but a juggernaut this postseason, I firmly believe the media has gone overboard with it's skepticism. Along with that skepticism comes "overhype" for the opposing team. There aren't many locals who think the Celtics can hang with the Pistons in a Game 7. Maybe they should read what the Detroit media – particularly what Mitch Albom has to say:
Since winning the NBA title in 2004, they have been known to: 1) Steal playoff games. 2) Throw away playoff games. 3) Win strong on the road. 4) Lose ugly at home. 5) Go longer than needed against inferior teams. 6) Oust challengers in seven games. 7) Watch certain stars drift off the stage. 8) Stay cool. 9) Lose their cool. 10) Face elimination. 11) Say they like the pressure. And 12) Get eliminated anyhow.
So Rasheed Wallace, heard Wednesday night in the locker room cursing a blue streak, will have to play, not scowl, his way to redemption. And Tayshaun Prince, understandably tired from his defensive burdens, will have to find aggression and a shooting touch if he wants another game this season. And Billups, a puzzling force this series, will have to earn his Mr. Big Shot reputation, not just hear it.
For all the bravado, here is who these Pistons really are: a team that, like late-arriving passengers, stuffs all its baggage into one huge suitcase and tries to hoist it through a closing door.
Anyone who reads this blog regularly knows I've been a bit sensitive to Celtics criticism this postseason. It's just nice to know the guys wearing blue-and-red have their faults too.
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